Fire safety should always be part of your summer plans

As you plan for outdoor fires, barbecues and other activities, be sure to follow these tips, writes Andrew Zvanitajs

Yorkregion.com
July 11, 2023
Andrew Zvanitajs

Summer is the time to kick back and relax, but that doesn’t mean fire prevention takes a vacation!

As you plan for outdoor fires, barbecues and other seasonal activities, be sure to follow these tips to keep safe while having fun.

OUTDOOR FIREPLACES, CHIMINEAS AND FUEL-BURNING APPLIANCE SAFETY

In Vaughan, chimneys and enclosed fires do not require a permit. However, following these safety measures is always a must:

• Store combustible material and flammable liquids away from all fuel-burning appliances.
• Keep a minimum distance of three metres (about 10 feet) between the fireplace and combustible objects. Put insulating material, such as stone, under the unit if using it on a wooden deck.
• Burn clean, dry firewood only, and limit the amount of firewood being burnt to keep the flames inside the unit.
• Never leave the unit unattended when in use, and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, pail of water or garden hose nearby, and do not use an outdoor fireplace on windy days.
• Check the unit regularly for cracks or other damage, and clear debris from the chimneys and vents.
• Do not allow the smoke from the fireplace to disturb your neighbours.

If you plan on doing open-air burning (such as burning debris or having a bonfire), you must apply for a fire burn permit from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service. Outdoor fireplaces or fire pits might not be allowed in certain areas.

BARBECUE SAFETY

Keep these tips in mind when using and lighting your barbecue:

• Always light the barbecue with the lid open. If the burner does not ignite, keep the lid open, turn off the gas and wait five minutes before trying again.
• When using charcoal grills, only use charcoal briquettes and lighting fluids explicitly designed for that purpose. Sprinkle briquettes with the lighter fluid and allow it to soak in for approximately 10 minutes before lighting. Never add fluid after igniting the barbecue.
• Never use gasoline to light a barbecue.
• Clean out grease traps often and remove debris from the grill.

• Stay by the grill when cooking, and keep kids and pets at a safe distance.

• Turn off all burner controls and tank valves after each use.

SMOKING SAFETY

The hot temperatures and dry conditions we get in the summer increase the risk of smoking-related fires. If you choose to smoke:

• Always extinguish cigarettes and cigars in sturdy metal containers.
• Never put out a cigarette in a potted plant or on the ground. Dry grass, plants and fertilizer can be highly flammable.
• Place a drop of water in your ashtray and allow the ash to cool down fully before putting the contents into a garbage bin or bag.
• Take the proper precautions so you and your family can have a safe and fun summer. For more information about fire prevention and to apply for a fire burn permit, visit vaughan.ca/fire.

Andrew Zvanitajs is the fire chief of the Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service.